INDIANAPOLIS (25 January 2013)—The members of the Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) voted to lift the testing requirement for equine piroplasmosis (EP) at Indiana race tracks, beginning Feb. 1, 2013.

Two years ago, in response to a growing number of cases of the disease at thoroughbred and quarter horse race tracks around the country, Board members imposed a testing requirement to protect Indiana’s racing industry. However, since then, awareness of the disease, increased testing and prevention efforts have reduced the number of cases dramatically.

Since the risk of acquiring EP has declined, BOAH opted to eliminate the testing requirement in time for this year’s racing season. The change is expected to save race horse owners between $211,250 and $390,000 in testing expenses annually.

About Equine Piroplasmosis

Equine piroplasmosis is caused by two parasitic organisms, Theileria equi and Babesia caballi. Although, Equine Piroplasmosis is primarily transmitted to horses by ticks, this bloodborne disease has been spread mechanically from animal to animal by contaminated needles. Cases of Equine Piroplasmosis can be mild or acute, depending on the virulence of the parasite. Acutely affected equine can have fever, anemia, jaundiced mucous membranes, swollen abdomens, and labored breathing. Chronic carriers are the source of most infections. The disease is endemic to much of the globe, but not the United States

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